Chemistry Inorganic Seminar – Ayomide Oluwafemi

About the event

Speaker: Ayomide Oluwafemi

Group: Dr. Jack Zhang

Title: Layered zirconium phosphate: An efficient solid acid catalyst and catalysts support

Abstract

Layered zirconium phosphate (ZrP) is a versatile inorganic material that has attracted significant attention as a solid acid catalyst and catalyst support due to its high thermal and chemical stability, tunable acidity, and unique layered structure. This review would attempt to summarize the fundamental properties of α‑zirconium phosphate, including its structural characteristics, interlayer spacing, ion‑exchange capacity, and intercalation ability, which collectively enable precise control over catalytic behavior. The presence of Brønsted acid sites associated with surface P–OH groups and Lewis acid sites derived from Zr⁴⁺ centers underpins its effectiveness in a wide range of acid‑catalyzed reactions such as esterification, transesterification, and alkylation. Various synthesis approaches, including precipitation, hydrothermal methods, and exfoliation, as well as modification strategies such as metal doping, pillaring, and surface functionalization, are discussed in relation to performance enhancement. In addition, the role of ZrP as a catalyst support for noble metals is highlighted, emphasizing improved metal dispersion and catalytic stability. Emerging applications in intercalation catalysis, photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, and hybrid nanomaterials would also be presented. Finally, recent research concepts involving ZrP‑supported bimetallic nanostructures and future directions integrating nanostructuring and machine learning are outlined, underscoring the promising potential of ZrP‑based materials in advanced catalytic systems.

Selected References

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Casciola, Mario.  Solid State Ionics 336 (2019): 1-10

Filiciotto, L., and R. Luque. Green Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (2018)